Must-Do Activities in Raleigh

1. North Carolina Museum of History
   This Smithsonian Affiliate, located downtown, chronicles over 14,000 years of heritage through an extensive collection of 150,000 artifacts. Visitors explore a chronological narrative featuring a 1903 Wright Flyer replica, a pivotal civil rights lunch counter, and the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame. With immersive dioramas and interactive programs, the institution serves as a vital cultural hub for discovering the state’s diverse stories.
2. North Carolina Museum of Art
   Set on a 164-acre campus in Raleigh, this premier destination features one of the largest museum art parks in the country. Its galleries house the “People’s Collection,” spanning 5,000 years with highlights including major European Old Masters, a significant Rodin sculpture collection, and Jewish ceremonial art. Outside, miles of trails connect monumental site-specific sculptures and a performing arts amphitheater within a diverse natural landscape.
3. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
   This downtown Raleigh landmark stands as the oldest established museum in the state, housing over a million specimens across its two distinct wings. Visitors encounter prehistoric fossils, including a rare “dueling dinosaurs” skeleton, and explore a four-story globe containing high-tech research labs. Through live animal programs and immersive coastal to mountain dioramas, this institution inspires curiosity about the natural world and the state’s diverse ecosystems.

Top 3 Hotels in Raleigh for Conference Attendees

1. The Umstead Hotel and Spa
   Nestled on twelve secluded acres of woodland, this luxury retreat is North Carolina’s premier destination for sophisticated relaxation. The property features a world-class spa, a heated outdoor pool, and a prestigious art collection. Guests enjoy refined lakeside views and impeccable service, making it a serene sanctuary for those seeking an elevated and tranquil escape.
2. The Casso Hotel
   Located in the heart of downtown, this boutique hotel captures the city’s creative energy through vibrant, contemporary design and local artistry. Guests enjoy modern rooms with industrial touches and a bar that serves as a lively social hub. Its prime location makes it an ideal home base for exploring nearby galleries and eclectic nightlife.
3. The Mayton Inn
   Tucked away in the historic downtown of Cary, this boutique property blends the charm of a traditional inn with the amenities of a luxury hotel. The Georgian-style building features uniquely decorated rooms, a cozy library, and an elegant terrace. It offers a refined, tranquil atmosphere perfect for a sophisticated and relaxing weekend getaway.

Top 3 Restaurants in Raleigh for Convention Attendees

1. Herons
   This signature dining room is one of the few venues in the country to hold top-tier culinary accolades. The kitchen emphasizes a farm-to-table philosophy, utilizing ingredients from a dedicated on-site garden. Guests enjoy artfully plated American cuisine and panoramic views of a scenic lake through floor-to-ceiling windows.
2. Crawford & Son
   Located in the historic Person Street neighborhood, this acclaimed restaurant offers a refined yet approachable take on modern American cuisine. The menu prioritizes seasonal, locally sourced ingredients transformed through sophisticated technique. With its warm, intimate atmosphere and an emphasis on genuine hospitality, it provides a polished dining experience that remains a cornerstone of the city’s culinary scene.
3. Jolie
   Inspired by the charming bistros of Paris, this elegant destination celebrates classic French soul food with a modern sensibility. The menu features impeccably executed staples like steak frites and onion soup, served in a bright, stylish dining room. Its standout feature is a lush, year-round rooftop garden that offers a picturesque setting for alfresco dining.

Closest Airport to Raleigh

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
Located approximately 10 miles from both Raleigh and Durham, the airport features two terminals with nonstop flights from 80+ markets. A focus city for Delta, it offers extensive domestic service and growing international routes.